Man arrested for allegedly operating 38 online gambling apps

Detectives in Thakurgoan have arrested a man accused of operating 38 online casino applications registered in his own name using a single smartphone, in what police described as a significant bust against illegal online gambling.

The detainee, Khorshed Ali, 30, was arrested during a raid on Thursday night (August 6) from Maligaon village under Jamalpur Union in Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila, according to the district Detective Branch (DB) police.

Acting on a tip-off, detectives seized the suspect's smartphone, where a preliminary digital forensic examination reportedly uncovered 38 online casino-related applications. Investigators allege that Khorshed managed an online gambling network through casino accounts created in his own name, operating across multiple websites, online platforms and mobile applications.

Police said the suspect was not only involved in gambling himself but also allegedly recruited local youths and other residents into online betting platforms.

Authorities believe the operation caused significant financial losses to numerous participants.

Local residents claimed that the spread of online gambling had left many families burdened with debt, with some cases reportedly ending in suicide after victims suffered severe financial hardship.

Detective Branch Officer-in-Charge Golam Rasul said online gambling, like narcotics, poses a serious threat to society, adding that law enforcement would continue its zero-tolerance campaign against such crimes.

A case has been filed against the accused under the Cyber Security Act at Thakurgaon Sadar Police Station. He has since been sent to jail following a court order.